IN AVERAGE how much do you think a first time author gets in advance?

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chimita

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HI!
My husband keeps on pushing me to find a job, but I'm so thrilled writing... and taking care of my 3 children at home.
So far I had 2 requests for my novel, and I'd love to polish my WIP,
but my husband keeps on asking me how much would I get in advance if I --cross my fingers and toes-- get to publish my first book.
I know the $ varies from book to book, but how much do you think a first time (agented) author gets in advance for a publishing deal? (average)
thanks for reading :)
 

ChaosTitan

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There are a lot of threads that answer this question, and unfortunately, the average advance for an unknown author is around $5000. And that's before your agent's 15%, usually divvied out over three payments (signing, delivery, publication). Some divide it up over two (signing and delivery), others four.
 

Kathleen42

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I'd guess somewhere between $5,000 and $8,000. There are famous exceptions but they're few and far between (not to say that you couldn't get an awesome S Meyer type advance, just that it's a bit like winning the lottery).

One thing to factor in would be the age of your children and the cost of daycare (if applicable).
 

Twizzle

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There are a lot of threads that answer this question, and unfortunately, the average advance for an unknown author is around $5000. And that's before your agent's 15%, usually divvied out over three payments (signing, delivery, publication). Some divide it up over two (signing and delivery), others four.

and don't forget setting aside the IRS's share. Ugh.
 

popbunny

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My first book was a non-fiction, and the advance was $5,000. $1,000 paid on signing, $2,000 paid on submission of manuscript, $2,000 on publication. Six years later, I earned out the advance (at $2 per book) and it's earned me $6,700 total so far.
 

chimita

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Oh! I guess my hubby's right LOL
I'll have to get a job... Unless I "win the lottery" with this book :)
Thanks to everyone for posting your comments!
 
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